BY OLAPEJU OLUBI
Skyway Aviation Handling Company Plc (SAHCO) has stepped up its drive for operational excellence with the acquisition of ultra-modern Ground Support Equipment (GSE) to enhance aircraft handling services across its nationwide network.
In the latest upgrade, the ground handling giant has taken delivery of a state-of-the-art pushback tractor from Goldhofer, a globally respected German manufacturer of aviation equipment.
The newly acquired Goldhofer F300, powered by a robust diesel engine, is engineered to handle most wide-body aircraft and built with rugged materials suited to Nigeria’s operating terrain.
The high-performance tractor has already been deployed to one of SAHCO’s hub stations, reinforcing service delivery standards and ramp efficiency.
Further strengthening its ground operations capability, SAHCO also procured five Ground Power Units (GPUs) manufactured in France by Guinault, a renowned global aviation equipment producer.
Each of the GPUs delivers 45kVA capacity at 115 volts and 115 on 28VDC, providing steady and reliable electrical power to aircraft systems while on the ground.
Powered by fuel-efficient gasoline engines, the units are designed for durability, portability and superior ramp performance — critical requirements in today’s fast-paced airport environments.
The advanced GPUs are capable of supporting most Class A aircraft as well as select Class B aircraft.
Their compact design helps reduce fuel consumption, while their rugged construction guarantees long-term reliability and operational flexibility, particularly at high-traffic airports.
The acquisition forms part of SAHCO’s broader strategy to invest in cutting-edge GSE that improves safety, reduces aircraft turnaround time and enhances overall operational efficiency for airline partners.
As the only aviation ground handling company with operational presence across all commercially operated airports in Nigeria, SAHCO continues to set industry benchmarks through continuous equipment upgrades, technological advancement and service innovation.
With the addition of these ultra-modern units, the company further consolidates its leadership position in Africa’s aviation ground handling space, driven by excellence, reliability and customer-focused solutions.
Olapeju is a journalist and aviation reporter.
